West Mercia Police today reassured communities that racially aggravated crimes are unacceptable under any circumstances.

West Mercia Chief Constable David Shaw said: “While the number of reports that we are receiving does not indicate any cause for concern following the European Union referendum, I would like to stress that every hate crime is one too many.

“Nobody should have to tolerate victimisation because of who they are and I would like to reassure the communities we serve that all reports we receive will be thoroughly and robustly investigated.

“I would strongly encourage anyone who is the victim of such a crime to report it so that we can take action.”

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “We are aware of national coverage of increased hate crime in some areas following the European Referendum last week. I am reassured that West Mercia Police are responding to our communities concerns and taking proactive steps to ensure all of our communities feel safe.”

West Mercia Police has seen a small decrease in reports of racially aggravated crimes when comparing June 17-19 and June 24-26. The force has stressed that, as with any hate crime, these offences will not be tolerated.

Courts treat hate crimes extremely seriously and the hate aspect of the crime acts as an aggravating factor that allows judges to apply a more severe sentence.

If you have been a victim or are witness to a hate crime, please report it by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. Every report of a hate crime or a hate incident will receive a police response.